Important Information On Using This Service
- Ergsy carefully checks the information in the videos we provide here.
- Videos shown by YouTube after a video has completed have NOT been reviewed by ERGSY.
- To view, click the arrow in the center of the video.
Using Subtitles and Closed Captions
- Most of the videos you find here will have subtitles and/or closed captions available.
- You may need to turn these on and choose your preferred language.
Turn Captions On or Off
- Go to the video you'd like to watch.
- If closed captions (CC) are available, settings will be visible on the bottom right of the video player.
- To turn on captions, click settings.
- To turn off captions, click settings again.
Find A Professional
More Items From Ergsy search
-
Had a cough for three weeks or more? It could be a warning sign | NHS
Relevance: 100%
-
What should you do if you have a cough or cold?
Relevance: 56%
-
How to treat a cold | NHS
Relevance: 21%
-
Chest infection: what should I do?
Relevance: 21%
-
Understanding and Managing Respiratory Illnesses in Families
Relevance: 19%
-
How can I prevent spreading my cold to others?
Relevance: 17%
-
What are the symptoms of flu ?
Relevance: 17%
-
Can I use a humidifier to help with my cold symptoms?
Relevance: 17%
-
Just the flu? | NHS
Relevance: 16%
-
Symptoms of flu (influenza)
Relevance: 14%
-
Bronchiolitis Advice
Relevance: 13%
-
What are the common symptoms of a cold?
Relevance: 12%
-
Latest Advice on Managing Respiratory Illnesses During Flu Season
Relevance: 12%
-
Pelvic health: stress urinary incontinence
Relevance: 12%
-
Measles
Relevance: 12%
-
Bronchiolitis and chest infections in young children - Prof Steve Turner
Relevance: 12%
-
Understanding Seasonal Flu: Prevention and Treatment
Relevance: 12%
-
What is RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) or bronchiolitis? UHL NHS Trust
Relevance: 12%
-
What should you do if you suspect you have measles?
Relevance: 11%
-
Flu can be fatal
Relevance: 11%
-
Pelvic health: prolapse
Relevance: 10%
-
Pelvic health: prolapse
Relevance: 10%
-
Bronchiectasis Class
Relevance: 10%
-
Should I see a doctor for a cold?
Relevance: 10%
-
An Asthma Explainer with Dr Katherine Hickman
Relevance: 9%
-
Dealing with Common Childhood Illnesses
Relevance: 9%
-
How to Treat a Common Cold
Relevance: 8%
-
Bronchiectasis class presentation v2
Relevance: 8%
-
What is bronchiolitis in children? The symptoms, warning signs and when to seek medical help
Relevance: 8%
-
Treating flu (influenza)
Relevance: 8%
-
Worried about signs that could be cancer? Contact your GP practice | NHS
Relevance: 7%
-
How long is a person with measles contagious?
Relevance: 7%
-
Is there a treatment for measles?
Relevance: 7%
-
What are the symptoms of measles?
Relevance: 7%
-
What is measles?
Relevance: 7%
-
How do I treat my child's cold? (9 - 30 months) | NHS
Relevance: 7%
-
Heart Failure : Symptoms of heart failure
Relevance: 7%
-
How is measles transmitted?
Relevance: 7%
-
How long does a common cold typically last?
Relevance: 7%
-
What should you do during a measles outbreak?
Relevance: 7%
Persistent Cough: A Possible Warning Sign
Understanding a Persistent Cough
If you've had a cough for three weeks or more, it might be more than just a common cold. A persistent cough can sometimes be a symptom of a more serious underlying health issue that requires medical attention.
Potential Causes
There are several potential causes for a long-standing cough. These can include:
- Chronic respiratory conditions such as COPD or asthma
- Infections like bronchitis or pneumonia
- Lung cancer
- Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)
- Side effects from certain medications
When to Seek Medical Advice
According to the NHS, you should see your GP if you have a persistent cough that has lasted for more than three weeks. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial, especially if the cough is accompanied by other symptoms such as chest pain, blood in your phlegm, or unexplained weight loss.
Diagnostic Procedures
To determine the cause of a persistent cough, your GP may recommend several diagnostic tests such as:
- Chest X-rays
- Spirometry (a test to assess lung function)
- CT scans
- Blood tests
Importance of Early Intervention
Early intervention can significantly improve treatment outcomes. For serious conditions such as lung cancer, early diagnosis can dramatically increase the chances of successful treatment. Therefore, do not delay in consulting your GP if you’ve had a cough for three weeks or more.
NHS Support Services
The NHS provides comprehensive support and resources for those dealing with persistent coughs and associated health issues. Make use of NHS services such as online health advice, NHS 111, and your local GP practice to get the help and information you need.
Conclusion
While a persistent cough can be worrying, understanding its potential seriousness and seeking timely medical advice can make all the difference. Stay vigilant and proactive about your health, and always consult with healthcare professionals for guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I have had a cough for three weeks or more?
If you have had a cough for three weeks or more, you should contact your GP for an evaluation. Persistent coughing could be a sign of a more serious condition.
Why is a cough lasting three weeks or more a concern?
A cough lasting three weeks or more might be a warning sign of chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma, a chest infection, or even lung cancer.
Is a persistent cough always an indication of lung cancer?
No, a persistent cough isn't always indicative of lung cancer. However, it is one possible cause, and it's important to get it checked to rule out serious conditions.
Can lifestyle factors contribute to a chronic cough?
Yes, lifestyle factors like smoking can contribute to a chronic cough. Exposure to pollutants, allergens, and other irritants can also play a role.
What other symptoms should I watch for in addition to a persistent cough?
Other symptoms to watch for include coughing up blood, unexplained weight loss, persistent chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue.
How will my GP diagnose the cause of my persistent cough?
Your GP may perform a physical examination, ask about your medical history, and may recommend tests like a chest X-ray, blood tests, or sputum tests to diagnose the cause.
Can medications cause a chronic cough?
Yes, certain medications, such as ACE inhibitors used for high blood pressure, can cause a chronic cough as a side effect.
What home remedies can I try for a persistent cough?
Home remedies for easing a cough include staying hydrated, using a humidifier, drinking warm fluids like tea with honey, and avoiding irritants such as smoke.
Is a persistent cough contagious?
A persistent cough can be contagious if it is caused by an infection such as tuberculosis or a cold. It's important to practice good hygiene to prevent spreading infections.
Can allergies cause a cough that lasts several weeks?
Yes, allergies can cause a chronic cough if you are consistently exposed to allergens like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander.
Should children with a persistent cough also see a GP?
Yes, if a child has a persistent cough lasting more than three weeks, it's important to consult a GP to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
What are some serious conditions associated with a chronic cough?
Serious conditions that can cause a chronic cough include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, tuberculosis, and interstitial lung disease.
Can acid reflux cause a persistent cough?
Yes, acid reflux can cause a persistent cough due to irritation of the esophagus and the respiratory tract.
Are there specialist services for diagnosing chronic cough in the UK?
Yes, there are specialist respiratory services within the NHS that can provide further evaluation and treatment for chronic cough.
What steps can I take to prevent chronic cough?
To prevent chronic cough, avoid smoking, reduce exposure to pollutants and irritants, treat underlying medical conditions, and follow a healthy lifestyle to support respiratory health.
Useful Links
Useful links from: Long Covid
- NHS - Long-term effects of coronavirus (Long COVID) This page provides information from the NHS on the long-term effects of COVID-19, commonly referred to as Long COVID. It includes details on symptoms, how to manage them, and when to seek medical advice.
- Long COVID Support Long COVID Support is a UK-based charity offering information, advocacy, and support for individuals experiencing Long COVID. They provide resources, community support, and work on increasing awareness and research.
- NIHR - Long Covid The National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) page on Long COVID provides updates on research, studies, and funding opportunities related to Long COVID, helping to advance understanding and treatment of the condition.
- Action for ME - Post-COVID Syndrome and ME/CFS Action for ME provides support and information for people with ME/CFS and those who are experiencing Post-COVID Syndrome. They offer guidance on managing symptoms and advocate for better services and research funding.
Useful links from: What should you do if you have a cough or cold?
- NHS - Cough NHS guide on coughs, including symptoms, treatment and when to seek medical advice.
- NHS - Common Cold NHS information on the common cold, covering symptoms, treatments, and prevention methods.
- British Lung Foundation - Cough British Lung Foundation page offering advice and support if you're suffering from a cough.
- NHS - Self care for common illnesses NHS page discussing self-care tips and treatments for common illnesses, including coughs and colds.
Useful links from: How do I treat my child's cold? (9 - 30 months) | NHS
- NHS - Symptoms of a cold in babies and children Learn about the symptoms of a cold in babies and children and how to care for them when they are unwell.
- NHS - Your pregnancy and baby guide: Caring for a baby with a cold This guide provides detailed advice on spotting signs of serious illness and caring for a baby with a cold.
- NHS - Colds, coughs, and ear infections in children Understand how to treat colds, coughs, and ear infections in children with advice from the NHS.
- BabyCentre UK - How to treat a cold in toddlers BabyCentre UK offers tips and advice on how to treat a cold in toddlers, providing practical solutions and comfort measures.
More Videos of Interestdiagnosis
Have you found an error, or do you have a link or some information you would like to share? Please let us know using the form below.
- Ergsy carfully checks the information in the videos we provide here.
- Videos shown by Youtube after a video has completed, have NOT been reviewed by ERGSY.
- To view, click the arrow in centre of video.
- Most of the videos you find here will have subtitles and/or closed captions available.
- You may need to turn these on, and choose your preferred language.
- Go to the video you'd like to watch.
- If closed captions (CC) are available, settings will be visible on the bottom right of the video player.
- To turn on Captions, click settings .
- To turn off Captions, click settings again.